Five Teachings of the Dalai Lama I Try to Live By
Five takeaways:
The world’s problems are many, and it is natural to powerless in the face of all this negative news. But to disengage from the world’s problems only perpetuates the cycle of inaction, and removes our collective ability to affect change.
Brooks’s visits with the Dalai Lama have re-convinced him that solutions to the world’s lie not in grandiose actions by a select few, but in the minor, daily decisions individuals make every day.
Based on Tibetan Buddhist teachings, here are five examples of small-seeming yet world-changing acts that the Dalai Lama has challenged us to undertake each day:
- Serve the tea: this references is a common act of generosity and humility in Tibetan culture—to serve others rather than expect to be served. Such a quiet gesture of hospitality starts a cycle of goodwill, and increases shared empathy.
- Show your teeth: The Dalai Lama uses this expression frequently, to mean, “smile authentically.” He believes that smiles are a contagion, that will spread warmth and foster meaningful connection.
- Change places: This boils down to being intentional about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. Choosing to focus compassionately on others’ troubles and admire their virtues may not always be easy, but brings out the best in others with practice.
- Think, don’t just feel: this is a safeguard against the intrusion of negative thoughts or worry, which are erased by the intentional devotion to reason. Logic and reason can cure anxiety, the Dalai Lama says. “If there is a remedy, then what is the use of frustration? If there is no remedy, then what is the use of frustration?”
- Let it go: There is power and liberation in not reacting to the bad behavior of others, and that restraint can actually be a meaningful act of kindness– both to the wrongdoers, and to yourself.
From Arthur C. Brooks at The Atlantic:
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